14 DAY TRIAL // The latest Apple rumor concerns a September 9 event, claimed by multiple sources as being hosted in San Francisco. The event is likely focused on music, iPods and iTunes, sources inform, while no Apple tablet announcement is likely to occur. However, the introduction of a camera-equipped iPod touch is expected.
Word has it that Apple is not introducing a tablet device this year, but rather in 2010. Even though one analyst claims he’s had an actual hands-on with a prototype of the device, this doesn’t mean Apple is mass-producing it. In fact, the news may even be bogus. Only Apple can confirm whether or not it is working to fill the gap some believe exists between the iPod touch and the MacBook.
What is plausible, however, is an updated iPod touch, equipped with a camera and, therefore, video capabilities. A new iPod touch would also boast more memory and would perhaps sell for the same price. As fans will agree, Apple generally upgrades the hardware, rather than dropping its prices. But a new iPod touch is probably not enough to fill over an hour's worth of keynote address delivered by one of the company’s execs (hopefully Steve Jobs, this time around). No, Apple is also likely to introduce at least another fresh iPod, even if it’s just about more storage and a couple of new software additions.
An iTunes 9 with Last.fm, Facebook and Twitter integration may also play a key role in the yet unconfirmed September event, other reports suggest. Going by our enthusiastic comments on the “Mac mini + Apple TV + Blu-ray” rumor, Apple should try to fill yet another gap this year. Citing a reliable source, The Boy Genius Report posted earlier a piece saying that iTunes 9 would be packing support for Blu-ray playback. Apple hasn’t disclosed (or even hinted at) plans of equipping any of its products with Blu-ray capabilities, but all hopes are up for an announcement next month. September is also the month Snow Leopard is expected to hit the shelves.